Vitex (Chasteberry)
Supplements · Hormone Support · Supplement, Typed Supps
Studied mainly for PMS symptoms.
Stage by stage
- Intake (Extract capsule): Active compounds absorbed in the small intestine.
- Small intestine (Absorbed): Absorbed alongside other plant compounds.
- Bloodstream (Influences hormone signalling): Circulates and appears to influence certain reproductive hormone signalling pathways.
- Premenstrual symptoms (Studied outcome): Studied specifically in the context of premenstrual symptoms.
What the evidence supports
- Reducing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms — moderate evidence. A 2017 meta-analysis found a large pooled reduction in PMS symptoms across several randomised trials. The finding is tempered by high heterogeneity and signs of publication bias, so treat the effect size cautiously.
- Easing cyclical breast pain (mastalgia) — limited evidence. Supported by a few trials and consistent with its prolactin-lowering action, but the evidence base is smaller than for general PMS.
Typical dose
20–40 mg daily of a standardised fruit extract, taken for at least three menstrual cycles
Upper limit: No established UL
Timing
With food, standard dosing.
Time to effect
- 1–3 cycles: Any reported symptom change in studies.
Medication interactions
- Dopamine agonists and antagonists (e.g. antipsychotics, Parkinson's medicines): Vitex acts on dopamine receptors and may interfere with these drugs. (moderate)
- Hormonal contraceptives and hormone therapy: Its effect on prolactin and reproductive hormones may oppose or alter these treatments. (moderate)
Common myth
“Vitex works within days.” In reality: Studied benefits typically require several menstrual cycles of consistent use to assess.
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